Severe weather : Windy and drizzly conditions expected in coming week across Zimbabwe

Harare- The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), in collaboration with the Department of Civil Protection (DCP), has issued a weather advisory warning of cloudy, windy, and drizzly conditions expected to affect southern parts of Zimbabwe early in the week starting 07 July 2025.

In an update statement of Friday, 4 July 2025, forecasts a weather system of high likelihood but minimal impact between Tuesday, 8 July, and Wednesday, 9 July. Areas expected to be most affected include Matabeleland South, Masvingo, Manicaland, and parts of the Southern Midlands.

According to the MSD, the sudden shift in weather will be driven by an influx of cold, moist air sweeping inland from the southeastern coast of Southern Africa.

Temperatures are expected to drop sharply, falling from daytime highs of around 25°C to lows of 16°C or lower in some locations.

The advisory warns that the drop in temperatures may trigger respiratory-related illnesses such as colds, coughs, fevers, and asthma attacks.

Authorities are urging residents, particularly in the affected provinces, to dress warmly, practise preventative health measures, and adopt safe indoor heating practices. Residents are advised to avoid using braziers or open fires in enclosed spaces unless proper ventilation is ensured to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Scattered cloud cover and cool, breezy conditions are expected to persist across other regions of the country as well.

A gradual warming trend is forecast to begin on Thursday, 10 July, as the cold front weakens and wind patterns ease.

However, the MSD have called for extra care to be taken with vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions, who are more susceptible to the effects of cold weather.